Business and Profession Women visit Byesville Rotary

Pictured: Nellie Bichard, Speaker Host; Cheryl Lowry-Miller, BPW; and Chuck Fair, Byesville Rotary President.

Cheryl Lowry-Miller representing the Business and Professional Women’s (BPW) organization spoke to the Rotary about the club and its activities. Club members believe in the power of “…women helping women.” BPW members help other women through a variety of efforts ranging from working for legislation favorable to women to education and mentoring.

Lowry-Miller pointed out that the organization, which was founded in 1919, has almost a century of service to women beginning with the organization’s efforts to insure the 19^th Amendment giving women the right to vote was passed in 1920. Current legislative efforts include support for equal pay. The local organization draws attention to this effort by sponsoring an “Equal Pay Day” during the summer.

Locally, the BPW works to extend opportunities for women in more personal ways. Lowry-Miller stated that, “The Haven of Hope which provides support for victims of domestic violence has developed into one of the clubs biggest service projects.” The BPW makes an annual donation to the Haven and has helped on other projects such as refurbishing rooms.

Lowry-Miller stated that education is another way the BPW helps women succeed in the workforce. In the spring the club holds an education Spring Seminar which helps women grow professionally. The organization provides an annual scholarship award of $500 to young women entering college. The BPW scholarship is open to any female living in Guernsey or Noble Counties. In order to be considered for the scholarship, women must submit a reference letter, and proof of application to college or university.

The organization has supplied sweatshirts and pants for victims of rape treated at Southeastern Med and professional clothing to help women re enter the workforce. Lowry-Miller also stated that BPW recognizes local professional women with a “Woman of the Year Award” and have recently established an “Outstanding Woman of the Community” award.

Connect with Byesville Rotary at: www.Byesvillerotary.blogspot.com or https://www.facebook.com/pages/Byesville-Rotary/256548047818283. The club meets 7:30 am, Tuesday at the Stop Nine Senior Center at 60313 (GPS use 60299) Southgate Road, Byesville. Walk-ins are welcome at the club’s meeting.